And it is Here Where it all Began

Reflection     
10 January 2010     
Feast of the Baptism of the Lord  
Gospel:  Lk. 3:15-16, 21-22

By: Grace Ponce

Jesus’ baptism thus leads us to consider the meaning of “vocation,” or in simple terms “calling” a word that has lost much of its significance through repetitive use. Vocations are the way we make our livings, and avocations — the things we don’t have to do — provide our recreation.

We do not have just one “calling”, and we are challenged to balance different responsibilities and relationships. But we have to consider this: as to the gospel of Luke the calling of Jesus is not just about a job or a career. It is not a word of mission, sending him into the future. Not at the beginning. The word of baptism is first of all about the delight of God in this beloved, this chosen, this child called by name. Not a call to do, but a calling that names.

As for Jesus, so for us. Our first calling, the baptismal call, is the one that simply loves and names: You are my child. I delight in you. The words embrace us and promise to hold us. This is where it begins, and this is also, we dare claim, the last word, the one that holds our future.

Nevertheless in linking that beginning and that end, this baptismal call will often become a call to ACTION. It will mean mission and ministry and all kinds of tasks. Anointing is a sign of blessing, but it is also a commissioning.

And not so long ago after my welcoming into the world, I learned to listen to my mother’s voice calling me home from play to meals, homework and chores. If love is unconditional at its root, it entails the desire and expectation of life true to its vision, living up to the good that was seen. My parents and teachers and keep counts of others called me and propelled me to the “callings” of my life. These “callings” have come through human voices and relationships, organizations and communities; they call to me as mother, daughter, citizen, colleague, friend. The calls are many, but their beginning is one.

Not every shed tear can be answered and not every call is from God. So it is a blessing when we can thank God for the joy of purpose in our lives and for times when the call to a certain task seems clear. Yet even when our callings seem hard to sort out or beyond our ability to fulfill, even in the day of failure and betrayal, I pray to remember again the calling that comes first and last. The tasks and duties do matter, but what stand for — our identity, our belonging, our hope — is heard here by the waters. You are my child, beloved, delight.